There have been a number of threads in this forum asking the same basic question: "What type of scanner should I buy?" These questions are usually posed by newcomers who have just discovered how the use of a scanner can enhance their railfanning forays.

Here is some basic information that should interest and inform anyone who is considering purchasing their first scanner. (Some of us "experienced" heads may learn a thing or two as well.)

There are three major types of scanners:

1. Hand helds (battery powered) that can be carried trackside.

2. Mobile units that are mounted in an automobile and usually run off the vehicle's 12 volt electrical system.

Your moderator has at least one of every type of the three mentioned above. I am not endorsing any particular manufacturer. As with automobiles, household appliances or home computers, all have strong or weak points, that some will tolerate while others will not.

Please take a look at the following links, I trust that they will provide some of the information you are looking for: